Dr Matt Szap , senior technical communications manager at Spectrum Chemical , explores supply chain optimisation , sourcing strategies and supplier selection in a post-pandemic world
PHARMACEUTICALS
Strengthening drug supply chain management , strategic sourcing & supplier collaborations
Dr Matt Szap , senior technical communications manager at Spectrum Chemical , explores supply chain optimisation , sourcing strategies and supplier selection in a post-pandemic world
Supply constraints continue to affect drug manufacturers worldwide . At the same time , demands for materials that meet higher quality standards , especially in the biopharmaceutical manufacturing sector , compound the problem . Figure 1 shows the extent and complexity of the issue .
In addition to raw materials procurement issues , multi-site international drug manufacturers deal with the challenges of ever-evolving regulatory requirements of the FDA , EMA and other regulatory agencies . They also must address supply chain disruptions and complicated crosssite cGMP inconsistencies , due to the differences in mature and emerging markets , varying best practices interpretations , and differing approaches to quality , safety and risk .
Strategic supply chain management is an essential part of risk management . A robust supply chain includes an established global network of multiple distributors . Strong supplier relationships provide reliability , transparency and flexibility . The right supplier provides scientists , researchers and procurement professionals with a robust global supply chain network , greater agility and resilience , and a proven track record .
Optimising the supply chain
Dynamic supply chain management establishes supply flow that ensures the right product of the right quality and purity is securely delivered to the right party at the right place and at the right time . Protecting and optimising the global supply chain is a joint effort .
To be effective there must be strategic , dependable and trustworthy collaborations among manufacturers , suppliers , distributors , and partners throughout the entire supply chain process . Logistics play a key role in efficient supply chain management . Agility and risk mitigation planning are required to deal with supply chain disruptions responsively and effectively .
Logistical challenges include the bottlenecks caused by international shipping issues , unpredictable global weather , geopolitical and
SEP / OCT 2023 SPECCHEMONLINE . COM
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